By Jerry Jordan, Editor
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Even before the rain-advanced Busch Light Clash was moved up to Saturday two weeks ago in Los Angeles, there was talk in the NASCAR community about moving the exhibition race to other parts of the country and even the world – with one of the most anticipated destinations being Mexico City.
That decision would suit Daniel Suarez very well, who is currently the only Mexican-born driver racing in the NASCAR Cup Series. He told Kickin’ the Tires that the advances NASCAR has made in the Hispanic community, specifically with bringing the NASCAR Mexico Series to more U.S. events, have helped grow that fanbase and a Mexico City race would be heavily supported.
“I think that’s a no-brainer,” Surae said. “You have to go to Mexico City, the heart of the country. The question to me is road course or oval. They have both options. I think that would be very special. There have been a lot of conversations about having a race in Mexico for a couple of years now, and I would tell you I would be the happiest person on this planet if that actually happens.”
Suarez explained that two years ago, he wouldn’t have thought it would be possible to take the Cup Series to Mexico but with the sanctioning body embracing the Hispanic community, it has changed his opinion. Suarez said having the Mexico Series as a companion event at this year’s Busch Light Clash at the Los Angeles Coliseum was huge. He also said that whatever role he could play, he wants to be involved in whatever way he could because he knows his supporters and fans would be behind him and NASCAR.
“In my opinion, we are making good steps in that direction. Maybe two years ago, I would have said we’re making baby steps,” Suarez said. “Right now, we are making good steps in that direction with the Chicago Street Race and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Right now, it doesn’t seem like a big move. We’re already doing a lot of big moves. I’m very excited with everything NASCAR is doing. I’m glad they are thinking outside the box to continue to grow the sport.
“It would be a huge role – not just for me but for the whole NASCAR Mexico Series. I’m looking forward to it because it would be not only huge for myself but for the sport and the fans in Mexico. The sport is so good and so big to do more international stuff.”
NASCAR has not yet revealed its plans for the 2025 Busch Light Clash but it has discussed moving the event internationally and Mexico City has been in that conversation.